Londonderry line works are ‘on schedule’

The major engineering project to complete the re-signalling works and a passing loop on the Coleraine to Derry~Londonderry railway line continues to progress on schedule.

To facilitate pre-testing and commissioning activity safely, some weekend line closures between Coleraine and Derry~Londonderry stations are needed during August and September.

Closures will take place on Sunday August 21st, Sunday August 28th, over the weekend of September 10th and 11th and Sunday 18th September.

Clive Bradberry, Infrastructure Executive explained, “We have made steady progress on this project with almost 300km of new cable laid over the summer months along with the installation of new signalling infrastructure.

“We are now entering an important testing and commissioning phase which will see various pieces of equipment tested before we build up to the main phase of testing during November, when we will see a 17 day closure between Coleraine and Derry~Londonderry.

“We remain committed to developing this line for the North West region and to building on the 2 million plus passenger journeys that already travel every year. These necessary closures have been carefully planned in conjunction with local stakeholders and community to avoid key events including the Portrush Air Show and the Halloween Festival taking place in Derry~Londonderry at the end of October.

“We have arranged bus substitution services during these closure periods and passengers will also be able to travel with valid rail tickets on local scheduled bus services.

“This upgrade will offer a more resilient rail service to and from Derry ~Londonderry including the potential for more frequent journeys and we look forward to having the programme substantially complete by the end of the year.

“We would also like to thank our customers and local people for their on-going patience and support as we continue to work hard to deliver this project,” said Clive.